David Boldt
Began his automotive career in BMW and Saab showrooms in the 1980s, and he moved to automotive journalism in 1993. David has written for a variety of regional and national publications, and prior to joining AutoTrader, he managed media relations for a Japanese OEM.

The 2010 Seattle Auto Show, among the first national gatherings of the auto industry’s 2011 models, will serve to highlight the newest – and numerous – green initiatives, the latest trends in expressive design and an automotive industry firmly in the grasp of an economic rebound.

Sales – as of October reports – are up, and the industry enjoys a confidence not seen since 2008. Some 44 carmakers will be bringing their wares to Qwest Field Event Center beginning Wednesday, November 10th. The show concludes on Sunday, November 14th.

Qwest fields an inventory of new entries in virtually every automotive category. The Greens can enjoy a close look at Nissan’s all-new LEAF, Chevy’s much-discussed Volt and Mitsubishi’s iMiEV subcompact. And those attached to hybrids will enjoy debuts from both Hyundai (Sonata) and Lexus (CT 200h). Lexus and its parent Toyota are well established in hybrid world, while the Sonata is Hyundai’s first hybrid for the U.S. market.

Those interested in the latest news will enjoy a look at Chrysler’s midsize 200, Kia’s all-new Optima and Volvo’s aggressive redesign of its evergreen S60. And just when you thought the Saab story might be over, the Swedish carmaker – under new ownership – debuts the all-new 9-5.

With their penchant for outdoor recreation, Seattle residents enjoy SUVs well beyond the confines of a side street or freeway. For them, the Seattle Auto Show will introduce two non-traditional takes on traditional favorites. Dodge’s all-new Durango receives unibody construction – and a significant drop in weight – with a 3-row derivative crafted on Jeep’s Grand Cherokee platform. And Ford introduces a crossover variant of its new Ford Explorer, its first total redesign in a generation. Redefining the crossover utility vehicle are MINI’s all-wheel drive Countryman and Nissan’s awd Juke.

Finally, eye candy is supplied by the usual suspects, including Audi’s R8 Spyder, Ferrari’s 458 Italia and Bentley’s Mulsanne. Those exotic buyers maintaining an eye for efficiency can find it in the Toyota-powered Lotus Evora or battery powered Tesla 2.5.

Location:

Qwest Event Field Center, 800 Occidental South Seattle, WA 98134

Show Hours:

Wednesday, November 10th 1 pm – 8:30 pm

Thursday, November 11th 1 pm – 8:30 pm

Friday, November 12th 1 pm – 8:30 pm

Saturday, November 13th 10 am – 9 pm

Sunday, November 14th 10 am – 5 pm

Admission:

Children – 12 and under: Free when accompanied by an adult – compliments of AutoTrader.com!

This image is a stock photo and is not an exact representation of any vehicle offered for sale. Advertised vehicles of this model may have styling, trim levels, colors and optional equipment that differ from the stock photo.